Recent Blog Posts

Peak Design Outdoor Sling 7L - A Word of Caution

I bought a Peak Design Outdoor Sling 7L bag a while back and generally love it. However, I noticed a potential issue when I first got it, which is the weak buckle on the strap. I found out the hard way that my worries were not unfounded, and I made this video to 1) warn others of this issue, and 2) share a simple solution that might help to mitigate some of the risk created by the weak buckle.

Comparing Modern, Vintage and Anamorphic Lenses

I chose three lenses in the mid-30mm range that have very dissimilar characteristics and spent an entire day walking around Hollywood to see how the images they produced compared to one another.

TTArtisan: Democratizing Fast Glass and Vintage Charm

In the ever-evolving world of photography, where cutting-edge technology often comes with a premium price tag, a new breed of lens manufacturers has emerged, challenging the status quo. Among these disruptors, TTArtisan stands out as a particularly compelling example. Hailing from China, TTArtisan has quickly garnered attention and admiration within the photography community for its commitment to producing affordable, fast-aperture, manual focus lenses with a distinct vintage aesthetic. This article will delve into the history, philosophy, product range, target audience, and overall impact of TTArtisan, exploring what makes this brand so captivating and why it's become a force to be reckoned with in the budget lens market.

Recent Reviews

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DJI Focus Pro

The DJI Focus Pro marks DJI's latest foray into professional wireless lens control systems, building upon their established expertise in gimbal technology and camera accessories. Designed to integrate seamlessly with their Ronin series gimbals and offer robust standalone functionality, the Focus Pro aims to empower filmmakers with precise, reliable, and feature-rich lens control. After extensive testing and analysis, this review will delve into its core functionalities, innovative features, performance in the field, and ultimately, whether it lives up to the professional demands it targets.

TTArtisan 75mm f/1.5

The TTArtisan 75mm f/1.5 lens is a fast, manual focus prime lens designed for full-frame mirrorless cameras. Known for its compact size, bright f/1.5 aperture, and attractive price point, it has garnered attention from photographers seeking a portrait-oriented lens with character.

Panasonic Lumix S5IIX

The Panasonic Lumix S5IIX is a full-frame mirrorless camera that builds upon the foundation of the S5II, adding a suite of advanced video features aimed squarely at professional and enthusiast filmmakers. Positioned as a true hybrid camera, the S5IIX aims to excel in both photography and videography, offering a compelling package for content creators who demand high performance in both domains.

Blazar Remus 33mm Anamorphic Lens

Historically, access to this aesthetic was reserved for high-end productions with budgets to match. However, the market has seen a recent influx of more affordable anamorphic options, aiming to democratize the cinematic look. This lens sits squarely in this category, promising a taste of that anamorphic magic without breaking the bank.

Photography, Videography & Cinematography Training

Key Concepts & Content Roadmap

Click here for is an outline of key concepts related to visual storytelling in photography, videography, and cinematography. This is a summary of important areas you might want to study on your journey to mastering these artforms. We will be continually adding more content so check back here or follow us on YouTube for updates.

Recent Lessons

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The 180-Degree Shutter Rule

This lesson will delve into the 180-degree shutter rule, a crucial guideline for filmmakers aiming to achieve natural and visually appealing motion in their video projects. We will explore its definition, underlying principles, practical applications, and creative exceptions.

Understanding Focal Lengths

This lesson will explore the fundamental concepts of camera lens focal length, a critical aspect of photography and filmmaking. We will define focal length, understand its impact on field of view and perspective, and explore its practical applications in various shooting scenarios.

Exploring Depth of Field

Depth of field (DOF) is a fundamental concept in both photography and cinematography, referring to the area within an image that appears acceptably sharp. It's the region in front of and behind your subject that is in focus. Understanding and controlling depth of field is a powerful tool for visual storytelling, allowing you to guide the viewer's eye, emphasize specific elements, and create unique aesthetic effects.